A heart attack can manifest in various ways, and while chest discomfort is widely recognized, pain may appear in unexpected areas. Recognizing all potential signs is important, as symptoms can differ among individuals. Understanding less common indicators, such as jaw pain, can be crucial for prompt identification and response.
Jaw Pain as a Heart Attack Sign
Jaw pain can be a heart attack symptom, not always confined to one side. It can occur on the left, right, center, or both sides of the jaw. This pain is typically described as a dull ache, tightness, or pressure, rather than a sharp, localized pain. It can sometimes feel similar to a toothache.
This jaw discomfort is a significant indicator, particularly in women, who may experience atypical symptoms. For some, jaw pain might be the primary or only symptom. If this pain arises suddenly or persists, especially alongside other symptoms, it warrants immediate attention.
Understanding Referred Pain
Jaw pain during a heart attack is a physiological phenomenon known as “referred pain.” This happens because the heart, jaw, and other upper body areas share common nerve pathways to the brain. When the heart muscle is deprived of blood flow, the brain can misinterpret the pain signals.
Instead of perceiving pain from the heart, the brain projects the sensation to other areas connected by these shared nerve fibers, such as the jaw. This makes it challenging to pinpoint the true source of discomfort. Consequently, jaw or teeth pain does not necessarily indicate a dental issue but could signal a cardiac event.
Other Heart Attack Indicators
Jaw pain rarely occurs in isolation during a heart attack and is often accompanied by other symptoms. The most common sign is chest discomfort, which can feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or aching lasting more than a few minutes, or returning. This chest pain may also radiate to one or both arms, the back, neck, or stomach.
Other indicators include shortness of breath, which may occur with or without chest discomfort. People might also experience cold sweats, nausea, lightheadedness, or unusual fatigue. Women, in particular, may experience a broader range of non-chest pain symptoms, including weakness, indigestion, or general malaise.
Immediate Action Steps
If you or someone experiences jaw pain or other symptoms suggestive of a heart attack, prompt action is necessary. Immediately call emergency services, such as 911 in the United States, as this is the fastest way to receive life-saving treatment. Do not drive yourself to the hospital.
Emergency medical services (EMS) personnel can begin treatment upon arrival and provide critical care during transport. Waiting for symptoms to improve or trying to manage them at home can lead to permanent heart damage or death. Swift medical attention significantly improves outcomes.